For Patients

Colestid (micronized colestipol hydrochloride) Tablets is used to lower "bad" cholesterol in the blood, which is also called LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. Lowering LDL cholesterol may reduce the risk of hardened arteries, which can lead to heart attacks, stroke, and circulation problems. It is a cholesterol-lowering drug. This medication is available in generic form. Common side effects include constipation, stomach/abdominal pain, gas, nausea, and vomiting.

For adults, Colestid Tablets are recommended in doses of 2 to 16 grams/day given once or in divided doses. The starting dose should be 2 grams once or twice daily. Dosage increases of 2 grams, once or twice daily should occur at 1- or 2-month intervals. Colestid may interact with steroids, heart medications, diuretics (water pills), antibiotics, or other cholesterol-lowering medications. Tell your doctor all medications you are taking. During pregnancy, Colestid should be used only when prescribed. It may affect the absorption of certain nutrients. This medication is unlikely to pass into breast milk. It may affect the absorption of certain nutrients. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Our Colestid (micronized colestipol hydrochloride) Side Effects Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information on the potential side effects when taking this medication.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is Patient Information in Detail?

Easy-to-read and understand detailed drug information and pill images for the patient or caregiver from Cerner Multum.

SIDE EFFECTS: Constipation, stomach/abdominal pain, gas, nausea, and vomiting may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

To prevent constipation, eat a diet adequate in fiber, drink plenty of water, and exercise. If you become constipated while using this drug, consult your pharmacist for help in selecting a stool softener and/or a laxative.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

SIDE EFFECTS

Gastrointestinal

The most common adverse reactions are confined to the
gastrointestinal tract. To achieve minimal GI disturbance with an optimal LDL-C
lowering effect, a gradual increase of dosage starting with 2 grams, once or
twice daily is recommended. Constipation is the major single complaint and at
times is severe. Most instances of constipation are mild, transient, and
controlled with standard treatment. Increased fluid intake and inclusion of
additional dietary fiber should be the first step; a stool softener may be
added if needed. Some patients require decreased dosage or discontinuation of
therapy. Hemorrhoids may be aggravated.

Other, less frequent gastrointestinal complaints consist
of abdominal discomfort (abdominal pain and cramping), intestinal gas (bloating
and flatulence), indigestion and heartburn, diarrhea and loose stools, and
nausea and vomiting. Bleeding hemorrhoids and blood in the stool have been
infrequently reported. Peptic ulceration, cholecystitis, and cholelithiasis
have been rarely reported in patients receiving colestipol hydrochloride
granules, and are not necessarily drug related.